ASA-ASO DIGEST: November 3, 2009

[Guest guest]

Dear Friend of ASA-ASO:

Visit ASA-ASO's website www.autismohio.org for an "easy to read" version if this does not come through clean on your listserv. Or sign up to receive your own copy by "registering" on the "login" section of ASA-ASO's homepage.

News From ASA-ASO:

- ASA-ASO attends Special Education Meeting with Governor's Staff

- ASA-ASO forming Ohio Autism Advocacy Network - Join Now!

- NOW OPEN! – 2008 NATTAP Conference Registration, Columbus

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

- ASA Greater Cleveland's Latest Newsletter

- Fundraiser to benefit South East Ohio Chapter- ASA

- Autism Society of America National Challenge

- ASA - Dayton Chapter November Newsletter now Available!

- ASA-Autism Society of Greater Cleveland, Lastest News

- ASA-ASGC: Don't miss the next Sensory Friendly Film-Madagascar 2, NE Ohio

- OCALI Transition to Adulthood Conference, sburg, Zanesville

- CBC Documentary "Positively Autistic"

- Upcoming events in NE Ohio

- Emergency Grants from Autism Cares

- OLRS to Provide Toll-free Voter Hotline on Election Day

- Autism and Alternative Treatments Conference, South Bend, IN

- Autism And Vaccines on the Today Show

- Article: Adults with autism beat odds

- Documentary on Twins with Autism

- Beyond Us Meeting - Wed. Nov. 12 - COTA, Columbus

- Information from ODE-Office for Exceptional Children

- Are You Prepared to Vote? Voting Information from Ohio Legal Rights

- Non-credit online College course covers teaching students with autism

- Estate and Financial Planning for the Special Needs Family- Helping parents help their children (from OEA)

- PBS Autism Special 11/2- Siff Exkorn, author of The Autism Sourcebook

- Save the Date - 2nd Annual Wrestle Against Autism, Columbus

- Milestones Family Workshop, NE Ohio

ASA-ASO is now posting all research opportunities on our website. For information on available opportunities, visit our webpage www.autismohio.org, click on "Information" along the left side of the home page and then click on "Studies/Surveys".

Have you purchased your Ohio Autism Awareness License Plate yet? To purchase yours, visit www.oplates.com and click on "Specialty Plates" or visit our website at www.autismohio.org for more information.

Sincerely,The Autism Society of America - Autism Society of Ohio Chapter701 S. Main St.Akron, OH 44311( 330) 376-0211fax: (330) 376-1226email: askASO@...web: www.autismohio.org Please note: This is provided for information purposes only. The ASA-ASO does not endorse or recommend any providers, methodologies or services. Providing this information should not be construed as an endorsement by the ASA-ASO, either explicit or implied.

News From ASA-ASO:

ASA-ASO attends Special Education Meeting with Governor's Staff

On October 28, ASA-ASO Co-Presidents Sawan Caruso and Barb Yavorcik attended a meeting on Special Education with other stakeholders with members of the Governor's staff and Stanford, the Governor's Executive Assistant on Education. This was a continuation of the Governor's Conversation on Education forums www.conversationoneducation.com. As part of the meeting, stakeholders were provided with a "Roadmap for Academic Reforms" that listed 23 goals divided into three categories - Exciting 21st Century Learning Environments, Excellent Educators, and Efficient Accountability and Resource Management Systems. These goals were developed with input from the Conversation on Education forums. We were asked to provide input from a "special education" perspective. A fair amount of lively discussion ensued and participants submitted written comments and input. The next phase is to begin the discussion on funding and this group will be re-convened to make sure special education is represented in this discussion as well. ASA-ASO will be sure to keep you up to date on this process. If you want to make your voice heard as part of this process go to www.conversationoneducation.com and click on feedback.

ASA-ASO forming Ohio Autism Advocacy Network - Join Now!

As you are aware, Autism Insurance Parity, HB170 is currently under consideration by the Ohio House Insurance Committee. The fall elections are coming and immediately following the elections it will be time to address next biennial budget for Ohio. Additionally, issues regularly come before the state legislature that impact individuals with autism, their families and those who work them throughout Ohio. And because of this, the Autism Society of Ohio needs your help.

We are in the process of putting together an autism advocacy network that has constituents in each of the districts of the members of the Ohio General Assembly, both the House and Senate. We are looking for advocates all around the state to help us with this effort.

You can volunteer to participate in two ways:

· Team Leader: Each Ohio district will have an assigned team leader who is responsible for carrying the key ASA-ASO/autism messages when meeting with the legislator (Representatives and Senators), coordinating testimony or letter writing for hearings, and for organizing the team members of their district, etc.

· Team Member: Each Ohio district will have several team members that are available to share their own personal ASA-ASO/autism story, to write letters when needed, and to ask from help from their neighbors/families/friends. Team members may choose specialize on certain topics – ie. autism insurance parity topic, special education funding, etc.

ASA-ASO is also developing a Legislative Advocacy Manual and will provide local training to constituent volunteer advocates.

If you are interested in participating in this effort, please send your Name, address, city,zip+4, phone, email address, House District Number and Senate District number and whether you are interested in being a “Team Leader†or a “Team Member†to askASO@.... Please put AUTISM ADVOCACY NETWORK in the subject line. To find your district numbers, visit www.legislature.state.oh.us and follow the directions under "Locating Legislators".

For more information, visit our website at www.autismohio.org

NOW OPEN! – 2008 NATTAP Conference RegistrationThe Autism Society of America (ASA) and Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) present the 2nd annual international conference on autism training and technical assistance. The objectives of the conference are to review current systems models for addressing the needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), promote use of best practice in research and intervention and provide methods for capacity building – all of which contribute to the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for individuals ages 3-21. Join the estimated 1,500-2,000 attendees from across the national and around the globe.NEW for 2008! Pre-Conference Sessions - November 18, 2008Pre-Conference sessions are provided by leaders and recognized experts in the field and provide attendees with a valuable opportunity for in-depth discussion and learning.What: 2008 NATTAP ConferenceWhen: November 19-21, 2008Where: Greater Columbus Convention Center | Columbus, OHRegular Registration (July 1 - September 22, 2008): $250Late Registration (September 23 - October 20, 2008): $300On Site Registration (October 20 - November 21, 2008): $315Parent/Family Member Rate: $100Pre-Conference Session Rate: $100Conference registration and information available at: http://www.nattapconference.org

The Autism Society of Ohio has provided a grant to OCALI reducing the registration rate for parents from last year's $185 to $100 for all three days of the conference! Register NOW!

Upcoming Events, Resources, etc:

ASA Greater Cleveland's Latest Newsletter

To view the newsletter, click here

Fundraiser to benefit South East Ohio Chapter- ASA

Date: Thursday, November 6, 2008

Time: 6:00-9:00 p.m.Place: Upstair of The CI (32 N. Court Street, Athens)Fee: $1.00 to enterAge: MUST BE 21 YEARS OR OLDER Enter and TO BUY ALCOHOL! ALL TIPS AND DONATIONS WILL GO TO SEO-ASA! Thank you for the COMS 405 class students for hosting this event and the CI for providing the space. Please share this info to your friends who might be interested!

Autism Society of America National Challenge

Your gift can go twice as far to help families with autism during the 2008 Bernard Rimland Memorial Matching Gift Challenge!

On November 21, 2006, we lost a tremendous pioneer in autism diagnosis and treatment with the death of our founder, Dr. Bernard Rimland. Today, I'm reaching out to good friends like you to share an exceptional opportunity to honor Dr. Rimland's memory and make our dollars work twice as hard to help families with autism!

A group of generous benefactors whose lives have been touched by autism and who wish to remain anonymous have pooled their resources to provide the Autism Society of America with a $25,000 challenge grant as a tribute to Dr. Rimland.

During this special 2008 Bernard Rimland Memorial Matching Gift Challenge, every gift you send will be doubled, up to a total of $25,000! If you're unfamiliar with matching gift challenges, this one simply means that if you give now, your urgently needed donation of $50 will become $100… $100 will become $200… In fact, any amount you send during this challenge will go twice as far to help us advance:

Early Autism Diagnosis - We are calling for routine autism screening in America for all children at 12, 18 and 24 months.

Therapeutic Research - We are committed to expanding practical research into comprehensive biology, physiology and behavioral and educational interventions that translate into practical, effective treatments that families can utilize today.

Enhanced Adult Services - One in 150 children with autism are now 14 and older; we are the only organization planning and advocating to confront the burgeoning American crisis in autism public health services and employment.

Advocacy and Awareness - We intend to keep autism top of mind for our newly elected officials after the November campaigns.

I'm hoping you'll consider an especially generous donation at this time.. Please remember whatever you send will be matched and go further than a gift you might send at another time.

Thank you!Lee GrossmanPresident and CEOASA Member since 1991Parent of a son with autism

Autism Society of America | 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 300 | Bethesda, land 20814-3067

ASA - Dayton Chapter November Newsletter now Available!

For all the latest news from the Dayton Autism Society, Click here!

News from the ASA-Autism Society of Greater Cleveland

This is just a friendly reminder that our next meeting is Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at 6:30 PM at The Cuyahoga Valley Career Center, 8001 Brecksville Road, Brecksville, OH 44141. (Please note, we will not meet on November 3 due to election day)Please join us as we welcome Judith C. Saltzman, Attorney at Law. She will discuss the new Ohio Department of Education Regulation Changes. If you need to use our free childcare, please RSVP by Tuesday, November 3,2008 at (216) 556-4937 or support@....Finally, don't forget to mark your calendars for our "2nd Annual Holiday Party" on Saturday, December 13, 2008 from Noon till 3:00 PM at St. s Woodside Party Center, 5035 Mill Road, Broadview Heights, OH 44147. Please RSVP no later than December 5, 2008 at (216) 556-4937 or support@.... Lunch is provided along with a free gift for each child. Admission is FREE for all ASGC Members.

Don't miss the next Sensory Friendly Film! "MADAGASCAR 2" November 8, 2008 10:00 AM Ridge Park Square 4788 Ridge Road, Brooklyn Hts., OH 44144 ADMISSION $4.25AMC Entertainment (AMC) and The Autism Society of America (ASA) have teamed up to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis with the "Sensory Friendly Films" program. In order to provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for this unique audience, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down, families will be able to bring in their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks, and no previews or advertisements will be shown before the movie. Additionally, audience members are welcome to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing - in other words, AMC’s “Silence is Golden®†policy will not be enforced unless the safety of the audience is questioned.

OCALI Transition to Adulthood Conference“What Is Required and What Works for Transition Age Students with Autism Spectrum Disordersâ€Space Still Available !sburg: November 6 & 7, 2008 Zanesville: December 3 & 4, 2008For more information:See attached registration formorVisit the OCALI website at www.ocali.orgorContact Vicki at 614- 410 -0753 or vicki_knisely@...

CBC Documentary "Positively Autistic"

Hello,Below are details about a Canadian Broadcasting Company documentary called"Positively Autistic" which aired this past Monday on CBC's "The National".The documentary and attached interviews include myself, on, Dawson, Estee Klar-Wolfond, Baggs, t Mottron and Moon. It highlights the growing strength of the neurodiversitymovement and is an excellent discussion of our work. We invite you to take alook <http://www.cbc.ca/national/blog/special_feature/positively_autistic/>,as CBC has placed a copy of the documentary online as well as transcripts ofthe interviews they collected for it. The link can be foundhere<http://www.cbc.ca/national/blog/special_feature/positively_autistic/>.We hope you enjoy it.Regards,Ari Ne'emanPresidentThe Autistic Self Advocacy Network1660 L Street, NW, Suite 700Washington, DC 20036http://www.autisticadvocacy.org

Upcoming events in NE Ohio

Treating Anxiety in Kids & Teens with Asperger’s Syndrome Presented by Dr. Nevada of KidsLink Wednesday, Nov. 5th, 7 p.m. Independence Civic Center6363 Selig Drive, Independence Free but must register by e-mailing juno (DOT) com by Nov.. 3rd Early responses appreciated.

Free Therapeutic Martial Arts Sample ClassWednesday, Nov. 19 at 4 pm

Strongsville Library18700 Westwood Drive

Strongsville

Helping Your Child Grow and Succeed at Home, in School and on the Playground.. .

Summit Academy Schools Therapeutic Martial Arts & Activity Program

Designed for children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders and non-verbal learning disabilities

Recommended by counselors and psychologists as an effective programImproves social skills, self-control, self-confidence

Increases respect & discipline, boosts coordination

It is open to children and teens of all ages. Please e-mail juno (DOT) comas soon as possible, if you would like to attend, andinclude the names and ages of your children

Free Training - Is Your Child a Target of Bullying? By the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities Must pre-registerby calling Neumeyer, Parent Mentor at 440-885-3761 Please note space is limited to the first 40 registrants. November 6, 2008 7:00 – 9:00 pm REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED Cuyahoga County Library – Parma Hts. Branch 6206 Pearl Road Parma , Ohio 44134 OHIO COALITION FOR THE EDUCATION OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES165 WEST CENTER STREET, SUITE 302MARION, OHIO 433021-800-374-2806Visit our website at www.ocecd.org for a complete list of trainings For young people 13 and up: Pizza Bowl

Dates: Friday, November 14

Time: 6:30 p..m. – 8:30 p.m.

Location: Roseland Lanes

Cost: $11 per bowler per date(includes shoes, bowling, cheese pizza, pop and Dixie cup ice cream) $ 5 per parent/caregiver if eating with the participants

Details: With the success of our bowling programs from the spring, we look forward to seeing everyone at Roseland Lanes (26383 Broadway Ave) in Oakwood (2 miles east of I271 and Broadway).

Registration Deadline: November 7 Please call Mayfield Village Recreation to register. 440-461-5163

For young people 13 and up: Basketball Clinics at Carroll University and Ursuline College

Date/Time: Sunday, November 9, 1:00-2:00 p.m. ( Carroll) Saturday, November 22, 11:00 – 12:00 Noon.. (Ursuline)

Cost: $5 each date

Details: Join Varsity Basketball Coaches, Schorr from Ursuline and Mike Moran from Carroll, and their varsity players, and learn the fundamentals of basketball through exercises that are meant to be fun and skill building that include passing, shooting and dribbling.

Registration Deadlines: Monday, Nov. 3 and Monday, Nov. 14. Please call Mayfield Village Recreation to register. 440-461-5163 For young people 13 and up: Game Nights at Mayfield Middle SchoolWhen: Friday, November 7

Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.Where: Mayfield Middle School Cafeteria/GymCost: $7.00/participant per date pre registered or $8.00/participant per date at the door $5.00 per parent/caregiver if eating with the participants

Details: Come join a fun night and hang out with friends. Participants can play a variety of board games, play volleyball, basketball, ping pong, bowl, listen to music, learn organized dances and enjoy pizza and pop. Registration Deadlines: The Wednesday before each event. Please call Mayfield Village Recreation to register. 440-461-5163

FREE Community Workshop OPEN to All Families in Medina County

Section 504 – Explore the Civil Rights Lawpresented by Lyke, OCECD

Date: November 6, 2008–Thursday

Location: Medina City Library210 S. Broadway, Medina, OH 44256

Time: 6:00 to 8:00pm

Explore the Civil Rights Law Section 504 protects the rights ofstudents with disabilities who are not eligible for services under theIndividuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA2004)

Comparison Charts for IDEA 2004 and Section 504 will be presented.A Workshop for Families and Educators

For More Information Or to Register Contact:

at 330-241-4805

Email SEEK4LD (DOT) com

Registration Deadline: Oct. 30, 2008Sponsored by: Special Education Empowering Kids, OH Coalition for the Educationof Children with Disabilities, S.A.A.F.E.Special Adapted Showing of â€Madagascar 2â€

November 8 at 10 am

For families with children with autism, an outing to the movies can pose an array of challenges. Many children and adolescents with autism may never get the opportunity to join their parents or siblings at the theater -- until now.

Monarch Center for Autism, a division of Bellefaire JCB, is hostingwith Cleveland Cinemas a unique movie viewing experience for the entirefamily. We are inviting families who have children with autism spectrumdisorder to join us for a private showing of the animated film Madagascar 2.

The movie will be specially light and sound adapted. Children are encouraged to bring personal sensory support items and special snacks (the theater’s concession stand will be open, as well).

When: Saturday, November 8, 2008

Time: Movie begins promptly at 10:00 a.m. without trailers and ads.Please arrive in time to buy tickets and choose seats.

Where: NOTE CHANGE OF LOCATION

Solon Cinemas/Cleveland Cinemas

@ Solon Commons

6185 Enterprise Parkway

Solon, Ohio 44139

http://www.clevelandcinemas.com/theaterinfo.asp?id=2936

Price: Tickets are $5 each. Cash only!

To prepare your child with autism for the movie, special social storieshave been created. These stories are available attached here and will beplaced on our web site at http://www.bellefairejcb.org/autism-education-services/

Please direct any questions or concerns to Karin Hess-Hopkinsat Monarch School at 216-320-8658.

Recyclable Art at the Monarch School - Whimsical SculptureUse your imagination to create magnificent masterpieces from recyclableobjects. Bring your family and friends!

Ages 5-12 and 13-20

Saturday November 15th, 12:30 -1:30Registration Deadline: November 8^th

Fee: $15

Please direct any questions or concerns to Karin Hess-Hopkinsat Monarch School at 216-320-8658.

Cooking & Chemistry at the Children's Museum

Ages 3-8

Cleveland Children’s Museum and Monarch Center for Autism presentthe following two programs for parent/caregiver and child.

Museum admission not included with class fee.

Programs are in the activity room at the Children’s Museum of Cleveland. Craft Chemistry

Saturday, November 22nd, 12:30- 1:30

Enrollment Limited

Registration Deadline: Nov. 10th

Get ready to turn household products into amazing science experiments.

Your child will help Science Sam explore the basic properties ofchemistry using science, math, art and experimentation. Using their new knowledge, kids will mix up a batch of their very own slime and create a tie-dye flower. All participants will take their slime, flower and an activity booklet so the learning and fun can continue at home.

$10 for the first participant;

$5 for each additional participant per family

Please direct any questions or concerns to Karin Hess-Hopkinsat Monarch School at 216-320-8658.

Cooking with Kids

Sunday, November 23rd, 12:30-1:30

Ages 3-8

Enrollment Limited

Registration Deadline: Nov. 10th

Children will learn how to create recipes that are easy, delicious and nutritious. Today we call all junior chefs to bake banana bread. All participants willtake batter home and receive a children’s Museum Recipe Booklet.

$10 for the first participant

$5 for each additional participant per family

Please direct any questions or concerns to Karin Hess-Hopkinsat Monarch School at 216-320-8658.

Greater Cleveland Area Biomedical Support Group Meeting

December 4 at 6 pm

Independence Public Library

6361 Selig DriveIndependence, Ohio 44131-4926

Off Brecksville Road in Civic Center complex

Meet other parents with children with autism who wish to learn more about biomedical interventions and network with other moms and dads.

Topic of this meeting will be determined later. Please contact

apattison@... for more information.

Pottery at the Monarch School

ages 3-8, 9-14, and 14-20

Make a gift for someone you love! Bring your family and friends! All pottery will befired and returned to Monarch for pick-up.

Holiday Crafts

Saturday Dec. 6th at 12:30-1:30

Registration Deadline: November 21^st

Judaic Crafts

Sunday December 7th from 1:00- 2:00

Registration Deadline: November 21^st

Please direct any questions or concerns to Karin Hess-Hopkinsat Monarch School at 216-320-8658.

Register online @ bellefairejcb.org or call 216-320-8658

EMERGENCY GRANTS FOR FAMILIES FROM AUTISM CARESAutismCares Provides Support for Families Affected by Autism During Natural Disasters and other Catastrophic Life Events MissionAutismCares is a consortium of leading autism organizations who have come together to support individuals with autism and their families during natural disasters and other catastrophic life events.PurposeAutismCares understand that families living with autism often need additional and specialized support in recovering from critical life-challenging events. Leading autism organizations, along with committed individuals in the community have come together to support families in their time of need. How Does AutismCares Help Families?AutismCares assists families who meet the eligibility criteria to cover costs associated with housing, automobile repair, insurance premiums, medical care, prescriptions, daycare, funeral expenses, and other items on a case-by-case basis. In most instances, payments are made directly to the vendor providing the services and not directly to the family. Assistance provided can not exceed $1,500 per family. AutismCares supports families who meet the following criteria: 1. Have one or more children diagnosed with an autism spectrum diagnosis2. Have a combined family income of less than $65,000 3. Have, within the previous 90 days: - Been the victim of a natural disaster-fire, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, severe tropical storms or windstorms, and earthquakes - Suffered a death or critical illness or injury in the immediate nuclear family- Been the victim of a violent crime- Lost their home through foreclosure, or eviction - Primary income earner experienced termination of employment - Lost their home through foreclosure, or eviction.How Do I Apply?1. Complete an online application 2. Applications are reviewed on a monthly basis. Deadline for an application is the 15th of the month. Applications received after the 15th of the month will be reviewed the following month 3. Families are notified of the results of their application by phone or e-mail.Contact Info: autismcares@...

OLRS to Provide Toll-free Voter Hotline on Election Day

On Election Day, Ohioans with disabilities who have questions about, or problems with, voting can access a toll-free telephone number operated by Ohio Legal Rights Service (OLRS), the state protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities. OLRS attorneys and advocates will staff a non-partisan, toll-free telephone line during the voting hours of 6:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. for voters with disabilities who have difficulty accessing polling places or casting ballots because of their disability.The toll-free Voter Hotline can be accessed on Election Day by calling 1-800-282-9181 and pressing the four (4) key during the recorded message, or TTY 1-800-728-2553.Voters with disabilities are encouraged to use the toll-free number on Election Day if they:· have questions related to disability about the voting process;· encounter problems or barriers related to disability in casting their ballots;· want to report rights violations related to disability; and· need immediate legal counsel and advocacy to protect their right to vote.Additional information about the voting process and links to other voting resources are available in the Voting section of the OLRS Web site at http://olrs.ohio.gov/ASP/olrs_Voting.asp.If you have questions about your voting rights prior to Election Day, call OLRS Intake at 1-800-282-9181 or TTY 1-800-728-2553. Intake hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.The Ohio Legal Rights Service (OLRS) is an independent state agency and the federally designated Protection and Advocacy (P & A) system. The mission of OLRS is to protect and advocate, in partnership with people with disabilities, for their human, civil and legal rights.This voter alert is also available on the OLRS Web site at http://olrs.ohio.gov/asp/OLRSVoterHotline.asp

Autism and Alternative Treatments ConferenceJanuary 30 & 31, 2009Please join us for the Autism and Alternative Treatments ConferenceCentury Center Convention Center South Bend, IN January 30 & 31, 2009Special 2 for 1 Parent registration now through Nov. 15, 2008Discounts Nov. 15-Dec. 31, 2008 Pre-registration ends Dec. 31st, 2008A collaborate of organizations have come together to organize this conference which brings together nationally known autism speakers, a host of informational vendors, children's activities, and much more.Featuring Keynotes by:Jim Ball, Ed.D. BCBA, Co-Chair of the Panel of Professional Advisors for ASA and on the ASA BOD will be speaking on ABA in Real Life, Misconceptions and Strategies to a Successful Program Bono, Chairman of the Board for National Autism Association will be speaking on Our Common Interest Within The Disability CommunityPlus sessions by:Dr. Devin Houston, PhD – Digestive EnzymesLori Knowles – Navigating the Maze of Nutritional SupplementsDr. Shaw - Multifactorial Causes of Autism and PDDAmy Stout, MSW, LCSW – Brain Imaging Finding in ASDMatt Cohen, Esq. – IEP's, 504's, and TRI (Response to treatment intervention)Dr. Norman Schwartz – Autism and the EnvironmentDr. Sharp – The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Families Zieman-Bongiorno, – Gut Bugs-All About Intestinal Issues & AutismDr. August ucci – Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatments & Neuro-FeedbackPeg Mazeika – Managing Behaviors in AutismDr. Mike and on – GF/CF Diet & the Science Behind itDr. Linsk, MD, PhD – Bio-Med 101 Kennedy, Esq. – The Politics of AutismDr. Lou Hulseman – Exploring Gastrointestinal IssuesJody Goddard – Specific Carbohydrate DietsDr. Tim Wahlberg, PhD – Communicating Through BehaviorsDr. Harry Hong, OMD, PhD, L. Ac. – Allergies and AutoimmunityThere is an evening reception in the exhibit hall open to all participants, a showing of the documentary, Finding The Words, which follows the story of 8 perfect babies, each given a grim diagnosis of ASD as toddlers, whose grieving families fight prejudice, misinformation, and despair to get their children well again. Visit the conference website for more information. There is a 2 for 1 Parent Registration Special Going on Now through November 15th.http://www.disabilitygoto.com/eventsregistration.html We hope you will join us!This conference is brought to you through the collaborative efforts of the Dayton Autism Society, Autism Society of Illinois, Autism Society of Indiana, Autism Society of Lansing, Michigan, DisabilityGoTo, National Autism Association- Chicago Chapter, North-East Illinois Autism Society, North Suburban Chapter of Autism Society of America and Unlocking Autism Mid West Region.

Autism And Vaccines on the Today Show

Below is a clip from the Today Show.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/27453507#27453507

If you're interested in Dr. Offit's book, here is the link on amazon.com. http://www.amazon.com/Autisms-False-Prophets-Science-Medicine/dp/0231146361/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8 & s=books & qid=1225378957 & sr=1-1

Article: Adults with autism beat odds

The disorder is common in Utah; U.'s research may offer hope for worried parents

By May The Salt Lake Tribune

Article Last Updated: 09/30/2008 02:31:13 AM MDT

MURRAY - Pond memorized Dr. Seuss' Hop on Pop when he was 2, but as he got older he couldn't name the color of Little Red Riding Hood's cape. He could speak, but he often repeated what he heard others say. He avoided eye contact. When Pond was diagnosed with autism almost 30 years ago, his mother, Debbie Pond, kept her expectations high: She told a parent support group she wanted him to attend school, make friends, go on an LDS mission, fall in love and raise a family. "[The parent leader] slammed his hand down on the desk and said: 'You guys need to get real. Your son will never do these things,' " she remembers. She explains this while sitting with Pond and his wife, Leann, in the couple's town house. Pond served an LDS mission, works as an armored truck guard, has an associate's degree and plans to get his bachelor's. His level of success is rare, according to University of Utah researchers who recently tracked down adults who were diagnosed with autism from 1960 to 1984 and had higher scores on intelligence tests as children. Nevertheless, the researchers and his family say Pond can offer inspiration in a state with a higher-than-average rate of autism, a disorder marked by unusual behaviors and difficulty communicating and interacting. "We thought that could provide some hope," says McMahon, chairman of the U.'s psychiatry department, who is overseeing the study and is director of the Utah Registry of Autism and Developmental Disabilities. "We wanted to find out, at best, what can you tell parents about what their children might become 20 years later." 'For us, that's hope.' In the 1980s, McMahon, other Utah researchers and the University of California School of Medicine in Los Angeles painstakingly found every autistic Utahn under age 25. The team reviewed their medical and education records, tested their IQs and interviewed their families. Back then, there were four autistic children and young adults per 10,000 people. Today, autism is diagnosed 20 times more often among children. But researchers know relatively little about the lives of autistic adults. Two years ago, U. doctoral student Farley began tracking down the Utah children who had IQs of 70 or above (the average is 100). She interviewed 41 adults, spending eight hours with the now 22- to 46-year-olds and their parents or spouses, assessing whether they would still be considered autistic, since the standard has changed. She tested their IQs and evaluated their quality of life. McMahon and Farley were surprised to find half were doing better than what parents and teachers thought was possible. They had full- or part-time jobs. A few are married and have children. They have friends or acquaintances. One man is no longer considered autistic, having taught himself how to interact by watching movies and reading books. "It surprised us that some of them drive, just because of all of the unexpected things that occur while you're driving," Farley says. "For us, that's hope." A peek down the road. But the other half live in group homes or with parents. They may have jobs but need supervision. They have few to no friends. One works as a janitor two hours a day and returns home to his rituals: watching movies and routinely checking for the mail. Some lost abilities. "For us to be able to get a peek at what happens down the road from interventions that happened 20 years ago, that's incredible," says Pete , director of the Carmen B. Pingree Center for Children with Autism in Salt Lake City. "There are those great outcomes and everybody should strive for the best they can do for their children. Recognize there will be those [children] you'll be excited about because they learn words." The study's findings may be published later this year. McMahon and Farley hope to interview the remaining adults and eventually learn what made a difference. In explaining the quest, McMahon points to the 2006 book Send in the Idiots, in which author Kamran Nazeer tracks down four autistic classmates 20 years later. The word "autism" comes from the Greek "autos", which means "self," Nazeer noted. "So much of what animates our lives - conversation, thought, creativity, friendship, politics - draws on understanding the world of other people," he wrote, "and yet autistic people may only be able to rely on one 'autos,' their own." 'They can make it.' Pond says he felt alone and unaccepted growing up. Struggling to understand what was going on in grade school, he would blank out so intensely that adults worried he was having seizures. As a teen, he wished he could take a pill to make his disorder disappear. While Pond is still considered autistic - he struggles to comprehend what he reads and he is socially awkward - he feels he has beaten the odds. He credits his parents and good teachers. He and Leann, a special-education teacher, met on a blind date and were married in the Mount Timpanogos LDS temple four months ago. They say they share values and goals, including eventually having children. "I do have my downfalls and weaknesses," Pond says, "but at the same time, I don't use that as an excuse." Leann says his autism didn't scare her. "Who can define normal anymore?" Pond added: "I wanted to be able to show that someone who is dealing with an autistic child, they can make it." hmay@...

Documentary on Twins with Autism

Flo and Kay - Twin SavantsDiscovery Health Channel November 7 - 8 PMOnly female twin autistic savants in the world.

Beyond Us Meeting - Wed. Nov. 12 - COTA

Dear Beyond Us-Aspirations Families/Parents,Our November meeting for Beyond Us will be the second Wednesday- November 12th We usually meet the third Wednesday but the NATAPP Conference is scheduled for Nov. 18 to the 21st.Beyond Us November Monthly MeetingSpeaker - son from COTA - she will share various services COTA busses have for people with disabilities.Wednesday - Nov. 12 - 7 to 9 pmSERCC Center - 417 Glenmont, Columbus, Ohio 43214(Go to the back of the building - the entrance is there)(Glenmont is off of Indianola just south of the Cooke Rd./71 intersection.)RSVP - Beu@... 267-7679(so will know how many handouts to bring and can set up the room)---------------I know that driving is a big milestone in terms of transitioning into adulthood. I know the a fair number of our young adults are not able to handle being able to drive - it truly is very complex task. My own daughter was evaluated at Dodd Hall and found to be ok to learn. She learned but she does not like to drive. So, lucky for us in Columbus, we have our COTA bus system. COTA has several programs for people with disabilities beyond being wheel chair accessible. My daughter has a Key Card which requires her to have a form signed once a year by a professional (in her case Dr. Gordon) to get a Key Card. The Key Card makes everything half price for her. So she gets a monthly pass for $22 instead of $44. There are other programs - the ADA card that makes it possible to schedule individual pick up with the Project Mainstream Bus. There is a program where a COTA person will come to your home - help you determine the route you need to take and then actually ride the bus with you. There might be more - we'll find out on November 12th.I know some people fear the bus but my daughter has been riding for 6 or 7 years and has never feared for her safety. I am very grateful that she is confident to ride the bus and figure out the schedules. At this point, I really don't have the desire or energy to be her full-time taxi driver. I really encourage you and your young adults to come to this meeting if transportation is a concern in your family. I believe this is an important key to helping our young adults work toward their independence and self-reliance a - one key to good self-esteem.Also, this November meeting will be our last meeting at the SERCC center as the facility is being turned over to a State Education Team program. In the meantime, I've contact Overbrook Presbyterian Church on High Street just north of the Park of Roses. I attend a meeting there and it is a great place to meet.I hope new parents, families, young adults will consider coming. This is a wonderful opportunity to network with other parents who are working on similar issues - we are not alone!! BeuBeyond Us - Families of Adults with Aspergers, HFA, & PDD-NOS

Information from ODE-Office for Exceptional Children

Interpreting and Sign Language Resources (ISLR) NewsletterFrom the Center for Outreach Services:

Here is the link to the ISLR newsletter page on the Center for Outreach Services website, where you can view the Autumn 2008 edition and all past editions of Signals: http://www.ohioschoolforthedeaf.org/islr_newsletters.aspx One benefit of changing to an online format for our newsletter is that starting with the Autumn 2008 edition, you can just click to open links of interest. You can also jump from the bottom of the first page to where the article continues on page 2. You can click on any article in the listing on the first page (even though this text is not highlighted in blue or underlined) and jump straight to the article. Read the newsletter now, or read more below for a few more previews of the Autumn 2008 edition:Read the complete Autumn 2008 edition of Signals so you don't miss any of the wealth of news and resources shared!

http://www.ohioschoolforthedeaf.org/islr_newsletters.aspx

Bilingual Special Education Online Program

The Washington University's bilingual special education online distance program is now accepting applications for the 15 credit hour graduate Certificate in Bilingual Special Education. Applications are being accepted for the Spring 2009 semester. The following distance education courses are available for Spring 2009. Registration is open now. Please contact Tara Courchaine at taratez@... or call (719) 660-7564 Spring Courses: TRED 227 Teaching Reading and Writing in ESLThe course is designed to give the student theoretical and practical knowledge of the development of reading and writing skills in English for kindergarten through adult English language learners. It will provide students with an understanding of the literacy needs of ELL students; a theoretical background of second language reading and writing processes; and practice with instructional approaches that assist ELL students in becoming skilled and motivated readers and writers. SPED 266 The Development of Language in Young (Exceptional) ChildrenThe purpose of this course is to provide students with an introduction to the study of language acquisition in typically developing young children as well as children who are exceptional.

SPED 277 Teaching the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Student with Special Needs: Methods, Materials and Classroom ManagementThe intent of this course is to present methods and materials for teaching and assessing students who are culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) and/or who have exceptionalities. Participants will engage in reflective practice as they analyze the language demands of classroom settings, as well as the instructional practices and materials for the special needs of all students. Students will be exposed to research in and theories of language acquisition, curriculum development and classroom management for use with culturally and linguistically diverse students with and without disabilities. Instructional adaptations and assessment designed to meet the cultural, linguistic, academic, socio-emotional needs of students in the general education and pullout settings will be presented and discussed. Current curricula and material for CLD and/or exceptional learners will be reviewed.For additional information or questions, please contact:Tara CourchaineDistance Program CoordinatorBilingual Special EducationThe Washington University(719) 660-7564taratez@...

Are You Prepared to Vote? Voting Information from Ohio Legal Rights

Election Day, November 4, 2008, is less than a week away. By now, you have made the final preparations to protect and assure your right to vote - you have registered to vote, received notification of your voting place, called ahead to make sure the building and voting booths are accessible, made arrangements for assistance to cast your ballot, arranged for transportation to the polls and have an acceptable form of identification. Now what?

Know the Candidates; Know the Issues

Along with the right to vote, you have a civic responsibility to know the candidates and the issues. Informed voting requires study, thought and reflection in advance of casting your ballot. Do not wait until entering the voting booth to start thinking about how to vote. Find out which candidates and issues will be on the ballot before Election Day.

This election, voters will elect the president and vice president of the United States and candidates for other federal, state, district and county offices. There are also five statewide issues (four proposed constitutional amendments and a referendum) on the ballot and issues specific to your locale - levies, initiatives and bond issues.

In addition to disability-specific issues, people with disabilities share the concerns of all citizens at election time - the economy, wars, education, taxes, immigration, the environment, employment, poverty and health care, to name a few. Once you've become acquainted with the ballot, learn more about how the candidates address the concerns that are important to you. Also, take time to learn more about the issues that will be on the ballot and how those issues impact your daily life. This will help you to decide which way to vote for each issue.

Find the Information

There are several places where you can get information about candidates and issues. The Secretary of State (SOS) maintains lists of all federal, statewide, General Assembly, county candidates and local issues. Visit the “What's on the ballot?†section of the SOS website for more information: http://www.sos.state.oh.us/SOS/elections/voterInformation/whatsontheballot.aspx

Your local county board of elections also provides information about what candidates and issues will appear on your local ballot. Another source of voting information is found at the county democratic or republican party office. A listing of these offices is found at the Ohio Democratic Party (http://www.ohiodems.org/site/c.mhLRKZPCLmF/b.3758903/) or Ohio Republican Party (http://www.ohiogop.org/counties/) websites.

One resource, developed by the Ohio Legal Rights Service (OLRS), is a comparison chart of the presidential candidates' positions on disability-related issues. The “2008 Presidential Candidate Positions on Disability-related Issues†chart is available on the OLRS website at http://olrs.ohio.gov/prescompare.htm

Non-credit online College course covers teaching students with autism

Non-credit online College course covers teaching students with autismThe Daily Dispatch Fri, 24 Oct 2008 2:21 PM PDTA course to provide teachers with effective strategies for teaching students with high-functioning autism and Asperger's Syndrome is now available online through the Cochise College Center for Lifelong Learning.

Estate and Financial Planning for the Special Needs FamilySeminar Hosts:Siegel and Agins, Co, LPA(www.siegelandagins.com)A legal professional society focusing on special education and the lawThe Financial Group(www.michaelcartergroup.com)Help families that care for individuals with special needs create peace of mind and allow them to concentrate on living.Monday, Nov. 36:45 pm registration7:00 program beginsorSaturday, Nov. 159:45 registration10:00 program beginsSheraton Independence Hotel5300 Rockside Road Independence, OH 44131These events are FREE but please RSVP in advance Each session is limited to 50 guests.RSVP: Donna Conry: 216-291-1300 or donna@...Refreshments will be served.

Helping parents help their children (from OEA) Some good ideas from this Ohio Education Association on helping parents help their children

https://www.ohea.org/GD/Templates/Pages/OEA/OEADetail.aspx?Page=3 & TopicRelationID=102 & Content=8842

PBS Autism Special 11/2- Siff Exkorn, author of The Autism SourcebookAUTISM – Part One: Discovery and Diagnosis November 2 Siff Exkorn, author of The Autism Sourcebook: Everything You Need to Know About Diagnosis, Treatment, Coping and Healing—From a Mother Whose Child Recovered, and other parents share their personal journeys from discovery to diagnosis and the difficulty of daily life for a child on the autism spectrum. The segment also includes the latest in diagnostics, the importance of early intervention, cutting edge research, and the vaccine debate. AUTISM – Part Two: Treatment and Early Intervention November 16 Parents of children on the autism spectrum, professionals and experts examine the importance of early intervention and training for pediatricians and teachers. The segment includes a visit to the Variety Child Learning Center in Syosset and an interview with a teenager with Asperger’s syndrome who speaks candidly about his personal experience living with autism. Tune In All episodes will stream in their entirety at http://www.wliw.org/healthymindsThe website will also feature resources to obtain further information.

Save the Date - 2nd Annual Wrestle Against Autism

OSU Wrestling & MRWOA Presents 2nd Annual Wrestle Against Autism, May 17, 2009

For more details & updates please visit:www.wrestleagainstautism.com Location: Ohio State University French Field House (some bleacher seating, lawn chairs welcome)Start Times: Sunday May 17th, 2009 @ 10:00 (Div 1-4) @12:30 (Div 5-6)Entry Fee/Registration: $35 Pre-registration w/shirt or $25 w/o shirt and $30 Day of weigh-ins. Shirts available for $15 day of the event. Admission is by donation only. Discounts for teams of 8 or more $5.00 off OSU Wrestlers and Coaching Staff available for autographs and pictures throughout the daySend Registration (must be postmarked by May 8th) and Make Check Payable to: Wrestle Against Autism 418 West Main St. Saint Paris, OH 43072

Milestones Family WorkshopDate: Sunday, November 9, Tools for Encouraging CommunicationThis workshop is for family members, caregivers, tutors or others interested in learning effective strategies for communicating and interacting in a home with children who have communication challenges. These effective strategies are for children of all ages with autism spectrum disorders. The workshop focus is on ages 1 years old through early elementary. Participants will engage in hands-on learning of ABA for use everyday in their homes. ABA is a system for teaching which breaks skills down into discrete steps. Skills are taught through motivation, errorless learning, and reinforcement. Pre-requisite: Knowledge of reinforcement, prompting, and discrete trial or listen to an audio podcast of this information Presented by Jill , speech pathologist from Beachwood City Schools and Kidslink- Neurobehavioral Center

Learn how to use a variety of visual supports Learn how to create motivation to communicate Learn how to encourage communication in the natural environment

Location: Mayfield Village Civic Center$30 per person per session or $45 for two family members/caregiversGroup Discounts/Scholarships Available For more information or to register call 216-371-4765 or email Kiersten at milestonesorg@...SAVE THE DATEMilestones 2009 Autism / Asperger's Conference, Landerhaven, Mayfield Ohio, June 19, 2009Requesting Proposals for:

Concurrent Sessions Poster Displays Panel Discussions

Contact Kiersten at 216-371-4765 or milestonesorg@... for an application.

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